Program Overview
This Davidson College sponsored program trains students in archaeological field methods and techniques and introduces them to the rich history and culture of the island of Cyprus, uniquely situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Participants in the program in 2015 will join the Athienou Archaeological Project in its 25th campaign year. The Project involves excavation at the site of Malloura (occupied from the Geometric through Ottoman periods - 8th century B.C. to 19th century A.D.) and field survey of the surrounding valley in south central Cyprus. Participants attend seminars led by faculty and resident or guest specialists, complete an independent research project, and visit archaeological sites (e.g., Amathus, Kition, Idalion, Kourion, Paphos) and museums. Students live in the small town of Athienou and learn about life in modern Cyprus. A three-day break in the program gives students the opportunity, if they wish, to visit Mediterranean destinations close to the island.

Academics
CLA 344 - PRACTICUM IN MEDITERRANEAN ARCHAEOLOGY

Course Description: Intensive, on-site training in archaeological field methods and techniques. In addition to daily instruction on excavation and recording there will be lectures by specialists on a variety of topics such as archaeological reconnaissance, topographical surveying, stratigraphy, dating methods, metallurgy, and conservation. The course will also include a comprehensive survey of Cypriote history, art, and archaeology from the Neolithic period to the Modern era. Visits to archaeological sites and museums give the student a broader perspective on the cultural and historical background of the Eastern Mediterranean region.

Books on Reserve: AAP possesses a small research library with academic titles as well as guides to the major archaeological sites and museums of the island; these are available to students for further reading and research. Most substantial research, however, is to be undertaken at the Library of the Cyprus American Archaeological Research Institute (CAARI) in Nicosia on your 'off-days'.

Housing and Meals
Students stay at various houses and/or apartments provided by the Project. Meals are provided at the place of residence, in the field, and, at local restaurants (and weddings!).

Admission Requirements
Davidson and non-Davidson students with a serious interest in archaeology and a strong academic record are invited to apply.

*Students must comply with the Davidson College Honor Code in all matters pertaining to this field school.*

Past Participants
"This program was challenging both mentally and physically. If you are willing to work long hours and get dirty, you will be rewarded with a lot of knowledge about excavation techniques and about your research topic. I made a lot of amazing friends, and I loved visiting all of the archaeological sites around the island. It was an educational, fun, and worthwhile experience."

"Athienou Archaeological Project (AAP) hosts some of the best directors I have had the pleasure of studying with. This program is not easy and a lot is required of the students, both physically and mentally. Once the program was completed, I realized I had learned more than I really thought was possible. The directors chose an exceptional group of students to staff the program and to attend the field school. I made some lifelong friends. I would recommend this program to anyone who is willing to work harder than they have before, but also wants to receive a lot in return."

Visa Warning: Passports must be surrendered as part of the visa application process. Since it may take up to 90 days to receive a visa and have your passport returned to you, participating in consecutive study abroad programs in different countries, particularly between summer and fall, may be problematic or impossible.

Davidson College and consulate staffers cannot guarantee that a visa will be granted by a foreign government in any circumstance or in any time frame. International students should schedule a consultation with International Student Advisor, Jennifer Glass, to discuss their visa status.

Davidson College reserves the right to cancel or modify part or all of a study abroad program should changing circumstances make it necessary to do so. In cases where the college has security concerns, the program director and the Dean Rusk Program Director will gather information and make a recommendation to the Dean of Faculty. The dean will take his decision to the president, who retains ultimate authority to decide whether or not a particular Davidson-sponsored trip should proceed.

Davidson admits qualified students without discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, handicap, gender, or sexual preference.